Vehicular homicide, also referred to as vehicular manslaughter, will refer to the charges brought on by unintentional death following a car accident. Unlike with murder that might have a motive, vehicular homicide will often occur when an individual is killed in an auto accident. Car accidents can lead to a loss of life and the responsible party can be charged with vehicular manslaughter.
Common Causes of Vehicular Manslaughter in New Jersey
Unfortunately, any auto accident can lead to death. Just a few of the most common causes of auto accident fatalities in New Jersey include:
- Fatigued driving
- Driving under the influence
- Aggressive driving
- Distracted driving
- Poor weather
The state of New Jersey will consider any type of reckless driving to be a cause for vehicular manslaughter. There are a few causes of auto accidents that can be prevented, such as drinking and driving or driving when overly fatigued. However, there are some causes, like poor weather, that can make driving safely more difficult. Drivers are expected to exercise care each time they drive a vehicle in the state of New Jersey. Each of these factors is taken into account when considering a vehicular manslaughter case.
Types of Vehicular Negligence
It is also important to distinguish the difference between the two types of vehicular negligence. These include:
- Simple negligence: With simple negligence, the individual did not knowingly break the law. While they might have been distracted while driving or failed to update safety devices on their vehicle, they are described as failing to take the necessary safety precautions when driving a vehicle.
- Gross negligence: Gross negligence occurs when an individual commits a crime that led to the accident. While they might not have intentionally wanted to harm the other party, they did so from drinking and driving or driving aggressively.
The types of negligence will also be considered when determining the sentencing following vehicular manslaughter.
Consequences of Vehicular Manslaughter
The consequences of vehicular manslaughter tend to be severe. An individual convicted of this crime could expect the following:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Up to $150,000 fines
- Revoked or suspended license
While actual fines and prison time will vary, being charged with vehicular manslaughter is a serious crime that can affect your future.
Why You Need to Work With an Experienced Lawyer When Facing Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
Whether you are facing vehicular manslaughter charges or you lost a loved one in a recent car accident, it is important to work with a lawyer that you can trust. Vehicular manslaughter charges in New Jersey can leave you with criminal charges and expensive fines. Choosing the right legal team will ensure that your rights are protected while we build your case. A good lawyer will also help you negotiate other types of sentencing, like community service or probation, in lieu of jail time. Don’t let a single mistake ruin the rest of your life.
Contact an Experienced Trenton Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Vehicular Manslaughter Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with vehicular manslaughter in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at The Davis Law Firm, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with vehicular manslaughter in Hamilton, Trenton, Ewing, Lawrence, and throughout New Jersey. Call 609-587-9100 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 2653 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
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